|
|
The Birch Terrace dining room was filled with folks who came out to support the Cook County Community Fund. Photo of the dining room is by MaryLou Sorenson;
On March 24, 2022, the Cook County Community Fund Trustees held their first annual Scotch Tasting fundraiser at the Birch Terrace Supper Club. The CCCF is an affiliate of the Duluth Superior Area Community Foundation.
The tasting included a special collection of single malt expressions representing each of the designated regions of Scotland. The evening started with a special “pub grub” dinner of Scottish food including crumpets, neeps & tatties, Scotch-glazed carrots, Shepard’s pie, white fish, haggis, and a raspberry/ whisky cheesecake. The seven Scotches ranged from Islay ‘peaty’ to a Speyside dramatic double-wood. A scholarly presentation of each region and its representative expression was given by Trustee David Coleman and by Tyson Smith. Toasts by members of the enthusiastic crowd preceded each tasting. In addition to fine food and beverage, each participant at the sold-out event received a lovely etched Glencairn nosing glass.
Ten local businesses generously donated $250 as ‘table sponsors’ and three additional organizations donated $150 as ‘bottle sponsors.’ Special appreciation is expressed to Steve Larsen, co-owner of the Birch Terrace Supper Club for opening the venue for this event and for culinary excellence, and to Chris LaVigne, manager of the Grand Marais Municipal Liquor store for working tirelessly to acquire the special Scotches requested.
Seven different types of scotch were on hand for the Scotch Tasting fundraiser. Photo of the Scotch glasses is by Pam Longville
CCCF Trustees Virginia Detrick Palmer, Mary Lou Sorensen, Leah C. Ekstrom, Claire Smith, Don Grant, and Lori Erickson each played critical roles in planning and execution of this event. Pam Longville provided the decorations, Fred Anderson guitar offerings, and Irene Backlund designed the etching.
A total of $6,500 was raised for the CCCF for this inaugural event. The money raised will be added to the CCCF endowment fund. Earnings from the endowment fund are used to give grants to CC nonprofit organizations; more than $23,000 in grants were given in 2021.
Leave a Reply